Planning for your Pets

You may have seen it in the news: Leona Helmsley left her dog $12 million. Many news outlets call the Helmsley dog, Trouble, the richest dog in New York City. While the dog did not directly receive any money, Ms. Helmsley did establish and generously fund a trust for him; and, like Ms. Helmsley, more people are arranging for the care of their pets after they pass through a trust. (although, Pet Trusts, need not be funded with millions of dollars to be effective!).

Why a Pet Trust? Pets cannot directly receive cash or property. Even though we love them and consider them a member of the family, under state and federal law, they are property themselves, and cannot therefore directly receive bequests.

A trust nevertheless can be established for the care and well being of your pet. As avid pet owners ourselves, we are committed to ensuring your pet is well cared for after your passing.

Click here to download a recent article Scott Squillace wrote concerning Pet Trusts.